Did you get goosebumps watching the launch of Artemis II? I sure did, knowing one of the four NASA astronauts is a woman: Christina Koch. It’s captivating because this is historic! Their crew will set a record for the farthest humans who have ever traveled from Earth – 252,000 miles. This mighty crew is testing life support systems for long-term lunar presence and providing unprecedented views and data. Christina Koch’s role on this mission represents a huge win for humankind, but especially women.

When we examine the status of women in the professional realm, there is still plenty of work to do! TenBridge Partners was glad to attend the sold out Elevate Women Summit hosted by the Portland Metro Chamber. We invited several female colleagues from a variety of fields to listen to insights regarding the importance of advancing women in the workplace. The takeaway is clear: supporting the progress of women requires intentional, collective action. Securing professional opportunity is not purely about TALENT, it’s about ACCESS.

As stated during the summit’s presentation and the State of Economy Dinner presentation we hosted in March, Oregon is facing a “new normal” of slowing growth and declining confidence. Women’s economic participation is key to Portland’s future. Despite gains in workforce participation, gaps in pay and leadership persist. Removing these structural barriers isn’t just about equity, it’s an economic imperative to unlock talent, productivity, and regional growth.

For more details, please take a look at the Portland Metro Chamber’s full 2026 report. It’s not so rosy, but Oregon is holding its own in certain categories.

As community members, we each have a responsibility to advocate, sponsor and create pathways for others. How can we do this? Here are a few ideas:

• Provide network opportunities to help women navigate career paths.
• Champion women for promotions and highlight their achievements in public settings, ensuring women can gain visibility.
• Promote flexible work arrangements, allowing women to succeed in their careers while managing personal responsibilities.
• Support initiatives that provide educational opportunities to empower girls and women, particularly in male-dominated fields.
• Vote for women representation in local and federal government.
• Watch women’s sports! Go to a game or buy a jersey. Women’s sports won’t grow without our attention. Just look at our beloved Portland Thorns – Sophia Wilson has returned for the 2026 NWSL season after taking maternity leave, marking her comeback to elite soccer. She was recently named to the U.S. Women’s National Team roster and is one of the league’s top players.

I feel grateful to work in a firm that values elevating women. TenBridge Partners fosters work-life integration allowing Sirra, Libby and I to be dedicated professionals while also raising children belonging to Gen Z and Gen Beta. In an industry that has unequal representation, we are seen and heard as equals. We are provided pathways to further our education and success in ways that are important to us.

Earlier in this newsletter I listed a few ways we can step up as community members, though there are endless possibilities. Please share your thoughts and ideas with us on how to improve professional opportunities for women. I believe that together, our collective actions can shape the future. To the stars we go!

About TenBridge Partners

TenBridge Partners is an independent financial planning and investment management firm based in Portland, Oregon with a simple focus of honoring the fiduciary responsibility of putting clients first. Guiding with curiosity and trusted expertise, we empower people to live their unique story with financial clarity and confidence.

Planning is central to everything we do. Our focus is on a complete understanding of your needs through the financial planning process, putting your success at the heart of our work.

We strive to create a community where financial planning feels fun, dynamic, and human.

Annie Bruce
Operations Assistant

The information contained in this correspondence is intended for general educational purposes only and as a means for facilitating a conversation.  Please consider our door always open to discuss your particular situation and how this information might benefit you and fit your specific needs.